Automation & Facilities Engineer

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the biggest tea business in the world, with world class purpose driven brands such as Lipton, PG Tips and Pukka. As Lipton Teas and Infusions we are united in one purpose: growing a world of wellbeing through the regenerative power of plants.

In July 2022, CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII took over the full ownership of the LIPTON Teas and Infusions (formally ekaterra) business from its previous owner, Unilever. As a standalone entity with a dedicated single-category focus, Lipton T&I is even better positioned to lead the tea industry, delivering higher growth and value, and a greater impact on the wider world. With 11 production factories in four continents and tea growing estates in three countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is a profitable and growing business whose brands reach hundreds of millions of consumers. It has a presence in over 100 countries.

At LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we work alongside people who put consumer love at the heart of every decision. Diverse minds who celebrate new ideas, share our values and the commitment we have for the wellbeing of all. In return, we create an environment that gives our people space and freedom, where they can grow as leaders. A connected community where ideas can thrive. Where you explore new challenges. Learning all you need to master your field, and even more about yourself.

Be part of this amazing blend. Join our collective and help us grow a better world of wellbeing and a better you.

Job Title: Automation & Facilities Engineer

Job Status: Full-time

Work location: Suffolk, VA

Travel: Limited

Your Role

The Automation & Facilities Engineer will directly lead technical teams to ensure the reliability of the Suffolk Factory asset base. The high speed, highly automated nature of the operation and the complexity of facilities systems mean this role has an impact on all corners of the factory. There will be significant daily duties in the technical and leadership space, but there will also be a portfolio of projects (some small improvements and some capital projects requiring significant investment). The ideal candidate will demonstrate a balance of strong technical skill, analytical problem solving, and leadership.

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, motivate, and coach a team of 15-25 employees to enhance engagement and drive high performance.
• Lead and administer 3rd party contractors under annual agreements for routine services, for one-off major repairs, or for project execution.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, fostering a "safety-first" culture across the facility.
• Oversee daily engineering & maintenance functions to support factory operations (proactive PM activity, breakdown response, instrument calibrations, etc.).
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on increasing productivity, reducing waste, and optimizing processes.
• Excel in a highly automated manufacturing environment, and drive change to expand the level of automation and adopt advanced modern technologies (predictive maintenance sensing networks, collaborative robots, adaptive learning AGV's, machine vision, and using AI as leverage across these or other applications).
• Automation Lead for site. Individually as a subject matter expert and broadly leading the E&I team to support PLC's, industrial networks, drive systems, robotics, machine vision, and other similar systems.
• Facilities Engineering Lead for site. Support through a network of internal resources and contractor resources the building and facilties equipment (HVAC, Compressed Air, Steam, Mobile Equipment Repair, Etc)
• Develop and mentor team members to enhance skillsets and career progression.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality, and ops planning, to ensure seamless production flow.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify trends and implement corrective actions.
• Manage and resolve employee relations issues, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Ensure adherence to company policies, regulatory standards, and best operational practices.

Skills and Experience:

• Engineering degree or equivalent. Preference for manufacturing experience, particularly in high-speed manufacturing, FMCG, or food production.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with a proven ability to engage and develop teams.
• Experience managing projects from initiation to completion, including meeting deadlines and tracking progress.
• Demonstrated ability to drive a culture shift towards high performance and collaboration.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to drive data-based decision-making.
• Knowledge of "continuous improvement" principles and methodologies is a plus (TPM, Lean/6-Sigma, or similar)

A Great Place to Grow

Here at LIPTON Teas and Infusions, we grow a world of wellbeing to generate value for all.

• Grow your LEADERSHIP – Thought leader or people leader, we want to help you to truly realise your potential. With a strong internal nurturing network and a focus on your development, you can grow your leadership with us. When you grow, the world around you will grow.
• Grow your VALUE - To foster your learning, we offer big, fulfilling roles within an empowering and entrepreneurial climate. You will have the space to take ownership and to make your mark – and you will be rewarded for the value that you create.
• Grow your IMPACT – We are unique in our industry - from our tea estates to our factories, labs and offices, we innovate sustainably and drive value for all. We grow a world of wellbeing, from seed to sip. You can truly leave your mark on our company and on the planet -through the meaningful work that you do.

Benefits & Perks

• Comprehensive insurance plans - health, dental + disability and life Insurance
• 401(k) with 5% company matching + an extra 4% after your first year
• Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Accounts
• Generous time off including paid vacation, company holidays, and floating holidays
• Parental Leave - Primary & Secondary
• Learning and development reimbursement

LIPTON Teas and Infusions is an organization committed to equity, inclusion and diversity to drive our business results and create a better future, every day, for our employees, global consumers, partners, and communities. We believe a diverse workforce allows us to match our growth ambitions and drive inclusion across the business. We are interested in every individual bringing their whole self to work and this includes you! Therefore if you require any support or access requirements, we encourage you to advise us at the time of your application so that we can support you through your recruitment journey.